Most people know when to call the police. But many fail to comprehend when not to. A good rule of thumb might be, “If the only thing at stake is your pride; think twice before calling the police.” After that second thought, if you think calling is right, then go ahead….. but make it a really good, clear, detached second thought.
How often do neighbors call the police on neighbors regarding trash, noise, parking or barking dog issues, or any manner of personal affront to their property rights? A man’s home as his castle seems to justify his Bronco’s party, but let the neighbor rake her leaves into his yard, and suddenly swift and sure justice must punish those who would demean Princely Acres.
If you can do so comfortably, think twice before calling in the complaint. Be patient and call your lawyer in the morning. He or she can best advise you as to whether your situation is criminal, civil or mental.
Some reasons to think twice:
1. If the police arrive and decide that the “callee” rather than the “caller” has the more reasonable point of view, or has done nothing illegal, the caller looks foolish and has unwittingly scored a victory for his opponent. Further, if you wrongfully embarrass someone or misspeak about them, you may give him a lawsuit against you.
2. Regardless of the outcome, whenever you call the police on someone you have made an enemy for life – of him, his family, his friends and your other neighbors who may take his side. Your relationship with the neighborhood will never be the same.
3. Self examine. If your expectation of the police is that they will sweep down and right your personal wrong, you may be disappointed. First, the most likely outcome if the police officer agrees with you is a ticket for your neighbor and a future court date for both of you. Second, if you show disappointment by becoming upset or confrontational with the officer because they have not lived up to your expectations, you could end up the one in trouble.
4. Self examine once more. Reconsider calling if you are just trying to beat the other person to the punch because you think they are going to call. Clear heads do prevail.
5. Finally, don’t think twice, think five times before calling if you have been drinking alcohol or you are not entirely clear and cogent. If you still call, once the police arrive, listen much more than you speak.
How often do neighbors call the police on neighbors regarding trash, noise, parking or barking dog issues, or any manner of personal affront to their property rights? A man’s home as his castle seems to justify his Bronco’s party, but let the neighbor rake her leaves into his yard, and suddenly swift and sure justice must punish those who would demean Princely Acres.
If you can do so comfortably, think twice before calling in the complaint. Be patient and call your lawyer in the morning. He or she can best advise you as to whether your situation is criminal, civil or mental.
Some reasons to think twice:
1. If the police arrive and decide that the “callee” rather than the “caller” has the more reasonable point of view, or has done nothing illegal, the caller looks foolish and has unwittingly scored a victory for his opponent. Further, if you wrongfully embarrass someone or misspeak about them, you may give him a lawsuit against you.
2. Regardless of the outcome, whenever you call the police on someone you have made an enemy for life – of him, his family, his friends and your other neighbors who may take his side. Your relationship with the neighborhood will never be the same.
3. Self examine. If your expectation of the police is that they will sweep down and right your personal wrong, you may be disappointed. First, the most likely outcome if the police officer agrees with you is a ticket for your neighbor and a future court date for both of you. Second, if you show disappointment by becoming upset or confrontational with the officer because they have not lived up to your expectations, you could end up the one in trouble.
4. Self examine once more. Reconsider calling if you are just trying to beat the other person to the punch because you think they are going to call. Clear heads do prevail.
5. Finally, don’t think twice, think five times before calling if you have been drinking alcohol or you are not entirely clear and cogent. If you still call, once the police arrive, listen much more than you speak.